When people move to a new place, they’re often extremely eager to get back to a state of normalcy. That typically means that they’ll get set up with all the services they need as soon as possible.
If you’re getting established in a community and need a cable provider, getting the answers to some crucial questions first will help you make a more informed decision.
5 Essential Things to Ask Your New Cable Provider When You Move to a New Place
How Quickly Can the Installation Happen?
The installation is a part of receiving cable that you can’t overlook. Fortunately, some cable providers have such efficient systems that they can have an installation professional come to your house the day after you make a call or email inquiry to say that you want to sign up for cable.
It’s important that you make sure that the area around your TV is relatively free of general moving clutter, such as packing materials and boxes, though. If you have time-related restrictions regarding when the person can come to do the installation, make sure to mention those during your contact with the company.
What Channels Do You Get?
Most people understandably want to know if particular providers offer the channels that they like to watch the most. Perhaps someone in your family likes to watch a channel that offers the latest football games on the weekends. Also, some basic cable channels are critically acclaimed, too. For example, FX is a favorite since the network takes risks with its programming and doesn’t always play it safe.
If a channel that you want is not available with the standard tier that a cable provider has, ask if it’s possible to pay more to get your must-have channels. Then, determine if the additional costs make it worthwhile while considering the frequency that you expect to watch the premium content.
How Can I Contact Customer Service If I Need Help?
It’s also a good idea to ask the company what methods they offer for people to get in touch with them if they have questions or something goes wrong. For example, email and telephone support are the most common, but the brand may also offer assistance through a live chat feature.
Find out about the customer service hours, too. When you know those details now, you’ll feel more prepared for any future issues that may arise.
Do You Have Any New Customer Deals?
While you’re in the middle of shopping around for a new cable provider, don’t forget to specifically ask about specials that the company may have for new customers. Some representatives immediately start talking about their packages and rates, and they won’t confirm that you’re a new customer. However, they should find that out soon enough if they ask your name.
Most cable brands care about keeping their new customers happy and bringing them on board. So, they have freebies or other things to entice you to do business with them instead of going with another option. For example, DISH Network packages give customers a free digital video recorder (DVR). Then, they can record shows to watch them later.
How Long Are These Rates Valid?
Before you finish talking to a cable company representative, always ask them how long the rates they quoted you will be in effect. Knowing that allows you to decide whether there’s enough time to research your other choices and spend a significant amount of time doing so. You may decide it’s best to take the package they’re giving you now because it’s so economical.
Sometimes a limited-time offer means you need to act quickly. Moreover, most cable companies specify that your rates won’t increase until you’ve subscribed for a minimum amount of time, such as two years. That makes it easier to budget.
This is not an exhaustive list of questions you should ask a cable provider. But, it should get you off to a good start and enable you to get valuable information during the conversation.
If some of your questions weren’t answered try checking some online guides like cable tv statistics by InfinityDish before subscribing.
